A burst pipe can cause significant water damage in a very short period. Knowing how to act quickly can minimise damage and save you from expensive repairs, so here is our step-by-step guide on how to quickly stop a burst pipe.
Find the stopcock
The first step is to locate the stopcock. The stopcock, also known as the main shut-off valve, controls the water supply to your house. It is usually located where the main water line enters your home, such as in your downstairs bathroom or under your kitchen sink. It may also be found near your water metre. Once you locate the stopcock, turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply.
Contact a professional
After shutting off the water supply, the next step is to call in a professional, such as an emergency plumber. Describe the situation to them, including any visible damage. Search for a company that offers CCTV drain surveys Slough and can provide immediate assistance to fix the burst pipe. A company that offers CCTV drain surveys Slough will make it easier to identify and advise on any complex issues.
Drain the pipes
To minimise the water damage, open the kitchen cold tap in your home to drain any remaining water in the pipes. This will help to relieve pressure while you are waiting for an emergency plumber to arrive.
Leaking cold water pipe
If you have turned off the mains but the leak won’t stop, this could be due to the storage cistern that stores cold water in the loft. In homes with loft-based water storage, the cistern continues to supply water even after the mains has been shut off; if this is the case, you will need to find the isolation valve and turn it off to stop the flow of water from the cistern to the leak. This will stop any more water from entering the system.
For ongoing maintenance and to prevent future issues, consider using a company offering CCTV drain surveys in Slough to inspect and ensure the health of your drainage system.